At AMFAS we understand the benefits that rapid prototyping capabilities can provide for a business. The most promising benefit of rapid prototyping is the ability to develop customized products as per the individual requirement. It requires no special tools or process to implement design changes in the product. A small change is made in the CAD model, while the entire process remains the same. For manufacturers, this is highly advantageous as it offers a connected experience for the customer with the product they purchase. Rapid prototyping also allows designers to realize their concepts beyond virtual visualization. This enables the designer to understand the look and feel of the design, rather than simply assuming through a CAD model. This helps designers carry forward their ideas, and implement them in their design prior to finalization. It also provides a proof of concept for the end client, seeking a more realistic product design rather than merely visualizing the design on screen. Having a physical model in hand, it is possible to incorporate the changes instantly by merely asking for feedback from customers. Prior to finalizing the design, there are several iterations required. With each iterative process, the design improves further, building confidence for both the designer as well as the end consumer. This also helps in identifying the actual need of the market, making possible to develop competitive products with better acceptance rate.

3D Printing

Recent methods of rapid prototyping include various forms of Additive Manufacturing, otherwise known as 3D printing. These 3D printing methods include Stereolithography (SLA), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), and Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) which are used to produce quick low cost, low volume prototypes.

Capabilities

AMFAS is capable of several different methods of producing prototypes. More traditional methods include machining, stamping with single-stage dies, and casting in which low volume samples are produced serving as prototypes that can be easily changed. These processes are further explained in our "Capabilities" section.